Today we’d like to introduce you to Anthony Flake.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’m a self-taught artist, gospel singer, writer, and pastor with over 30 years of creative experience. I began painting early in life, creating portraits, landscapes, and murals. In 2014, after a divine dream, I started singing gospel music — with no formal training — and discovered a gift that connects deeply through an old-school R&B sound.
I write all my songs and record from my home studio in Midtown. My writing and music are shaped by real-life struggles — including the loss of my wife, raising nine children (seven of them stepchildren), and now caring for my daughter, who is also a brilliant, talented writer and a student at the University of Memphis. Supporting her healing journey has become one of my greatest missions.
I’ve worked delivery gigs to survive, but my calling never stopped. Today, I run Anthony Flake Art Studio, release gospel music, write to inspire others, and serve faithfully in ministry — even without a formal congregation. I’ve had little outside support, but God has been my strength. My mission is simple: to uplift, encourage, and glorify Him through every gift He placed in me.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Not at all — the road has been anything but smooth. I’ve faced more challenges than I can count, but by the grace of God, I’m still standing.
After losing my wife to cancer, I became a single father, raising my daughter while trying to keep everything together. I’ve worked countless delivery gigs just to survive, all while dealing with back pain, foot problems, and very little support from family. I raised nine children — seven of them stepkids — and yet I often found myself walking this journey alone, especially in the hardest moments.
There were times I felt invisible. No one saw the pain, the sacrifice, or the weight I was carrying. But God saw. And He kept me going. He gave me the strength to keep creating, keep singing, keep ministering, and keep being the father my daughter needed.
It’s been a lonely and difficult road, but every trial shaped my heart and deepened my purpose. I’m encouraged and truly humbled to even be asked to share my story in your magazine. It reminds me that what I’ve gone through wasn’t in vain — that someone out there might be touched or lifted just by hearing how I didn’t give up. That means more to me than words can say .
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a multi-talented artist as mentioned earlier —a painter, singer, songwriter, writer, and pastor. My journey as a professional painter spans over 30 years, during which I’ve specialized in creating portraits, landscapes, and murals using oils, acrylics, and airbrush techniques. My artistic style is widely recognized for its expressive and soulful qualities, with many describing my work as carrying emotions that resonate deeply without the need for words.
In 2014, my path expanded into music after experiencing a divine dream that inspired me to start singing—despite having no formal training. Since then, I have released original Gospel music that has touched hearts globally with its angelic vocals and powerful messages. My voice has earned me the nickname *Gospel Elvis* due to its unique range; when singing low, it resembles Elvis Presley’s tone, while my high notes soar with a quality reminiscent of Smokey Robinson or Michael Jackson. This distinctive vocal style has been described as both unusual and captivating. I am honored to have won five Gospel music awards in Chicago, further cementing my impact in this genre. I write, record, and produce all my music independently from my home studio in Midtown Memphis. My songs are deeply rooted in faith, healing, and authentic life experiences.
Beyond painting and music, I am also a dedicated writer. My works focus on themes of purity, healing, and navigating loss—offering teachings that speak directly to the heart. I’m currently raising my daughter, who is a brilliant University of Memphis student and a gifted writer herself. Together, we support each other creatively and spiritually.
What sets me apart is that my work goes beyond artistry; it is a ministry. Every piece of art I create and every song I sing is designed to uplift, inspire, and bring light into dark places. I am most proud of persevering through life’s challenges while staying true to the calling God placed on my life. Today, I am honored to share that light with others through my gifts.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
For me, success goes beyond just financial achievements or recognition. It’s about aligning with God’s purpose for my life, using the talents and gifts He’s given me to serve others and live with integrity. Even though I am financially struggling, success means finding peace, contentment, and balance in my life—caring for my daughter, my ministry, and my well-being. It’s about staying faithful, resilient, and trusting God to provide, even in the tough times. Ultimately, success is living a life of purpose, no matter the external circumstances.
Pricing:
- Custom oil Portrait $200 of self or Family
- Check out my streaming Platforms
- You see me on Monday at 4pm cdt on Eternal life TV
- Working on a couple of Books
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.getmeheard.com/united-states/bartlett/musician/artist-anthony-flake
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anthonyflakeofficial/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088032180517
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@GiveGodtheGloryTV
- Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/artist-anthony-flake
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@pastorartistanthonyflake
